Understanding Genetic and Chromosomal Conditions
Genetic and chromosomal conditions result from changes in DNA that can affect a child’s growth, development, and bodily functions. Genetic disorders occur due to mutations in a single gene, while chromosomal conditions involve changes in the number or structure of chromosomes.
At South West Kids Clinic, we believe in a holistic approach to care that addresses the developmental needs of children affected by genetic and chromosomal disorders. Our experienced team works closely with families to create personalised treatment plans that enhance health, development, and quality of life. With a focus on innovative therapies and family-centred care, we are committed to positively impacting the lives of our clients and their families.
Understanding Common Types of Genetic and Chromosomal Conditions
At South West Kids Clinic, we understand the common genetic and chromosomal conditions and their unique challenges for children and their families. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing tailored support and interventions to help each child reach their full potential. Common types of genetic and chromosomal conditions include:
Down Syndrome
This condition, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, affects a child’s physical growth and development.
Cystic Fibrosis
A genetic disorder that affects the respiratory and digestive systems, leading to chronic symptoms.
Fragile X Syndrome
A genetic condition causing intellectual disability and distinctive physical features.
Turner Syndrome
A chromosomal disorder affecting females where one of the X chromosomes is missing or partially missing, leading to developmental issues.
Comprehensive Genetic and Chromosomal Condition Treatments and Therapies
At South West Kids Clinic, we use a range of therapeutic approaches to support children with genetic and chromosomal conditions. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates to develop and implement effective treatment plans tailored to each child’s needs.
- Development of motor milestones such as reaching and grasping
- Use of hands for functional tasks
- Development of strength and endurance for physical activities
- Social play skill development
- Postural control
- 24-hour positioning needs
- Self-care skill development
- School readiness
- Learning optimal early movement patterns
- Mobility and gait training
- Chest physiotherapy
- Muscle strength and endurance
- Balance and coordination
- Balance and coordination
- Postural control and positioning
- Pain management
- Facilitation of exercise and physical activity
- Articulation of speech sounds
- Intelligibility
- Oral motor skills
- Receptive (understanding) language development
- Expressive (use of) language development
- Feeding difficulties and dysphagia due to structural differences or weakness
- Developing oral motor skills for feeding where there is a feeding tube in place
- Auditory discrimination for hearing impairment
- AAC trialling and prescribing for individual needs
- Meeting nutritional requirements for age and development
- Feeding difficulties
- Specific dietary needs based on conditions
- Comprehensive assessments
- Goal-Directed Training
- Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance
- Occupational Performance Coaching
- Assistive Technology
- Environmental modification
- Equipment prescription
- Pediatric
- Theratogs
- Splinting
- Casting
- Spider Cage therapy
- Learn to Play Therapy
- DIR Floortime
- Parent and carer education and training
- Automate
- Blazepods
- Home and community-based therapies to support the generalisation of skills
- Functional capacity assessment
- Functional, goal-directed therapy
- Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) intensive therapy
- Spider cage therapy
- Pediasuit
- Orthotic prescription, monitoring & support
- Adaptive equipment support and trials
- Aquatic physiotherapy
- Family and caregiver coaching
- Comprehensive assessment of oral motor skills required for speech and feeding
- Comprehensive Assessment of language and literacy skills
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication prescription, monitoring and support
- Alternative access for AAC, including switch access, eye gaze, and partner-assisted scanning
- Nuffield Dyspraxia Program ● Rapid Syllable Transition Treatment (ReST)
- Contextual Utilisation Approaches for Speech Sound Production
- Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DDTC)
- Play-based language stimulation
- Cued Articulation approach
- Responsive Feeding Therapy Approach
- Liaison with specialist teams, such as Dietetics, gastroenterology or others regarding dysphagia
- Parent/caregiver coaching & support
- Liaison with specialist teams, such as ophthalmology
- Comprehensive nutrition assessment
- Support nutrition modification based on individual needs
- Recommendations on nutritional supplements to support meeting dietary needs
- Feeding therapy
- Enteral nutrition support
Frequently asked questions
What should I expect during the initial assessment for my child?
The initial assessment involves a detailed evaluation of your child’s medical history, current health, and developmental status. This helps our team understand your child’s specific needs and forms the basis for their personalised treatment plan.
How often will my child need therapy?
The frequency of therapy sessions depends on the severity of your child’s condition and their specific needs. Therapy might start more intensively and decrease as your child makes progress. Our team will recommend a schedule that maximises therapeutic benefits while considering your family’s lifestyle.
How can I support my child’s development at home?
Our therapists will provide specific strategies and activities for you at home to reinforce the skills learned during therapy sessions. Consistent practice at home is crucial for ongoing progress and will be tailored to fit easily into your daily routine.
